The Maternity Series: 34 Weeks

Outfit details: Tank: H&M // Skirt: Target 

So, if you’ve noticed, my hair has been up a lot lately… in a bun, in a twist, in braids. And yes, it’s hot. And yes, carrying some extra pounds in the low heat waves we’ve had lately in Florida makes it even hotter. But also? Both my curling iron and flat iron busted… in the same week. I haven’t replaced them yet, so I’m holding out with some extra up do’s until that day comes.  (Recommendations welcome, by the way.)

On another note, our little bunny boy is growing! The entire family is getting ready for his arrival in just a few weeks (or a couple of weeks, we’ll see!). And by entire family, I mean that even our puppy has been in training, or shall I say, we’ve been in training with her. And right now? I’m supposed to be carrying around one of Aliyah’s baby dolls, cradled as my own to prepare for puppy/baby safety. I’ll admit, I did good with that for all of about two hours and since then, that little blonde-headed doll has been in the bassinet, while I tend to my real kids. Aliyah is on the ball though, consistently asking questions like, “Mom, where’s the baby?!” or giving me a nudge toward the bedroom with, “I think the baby is crying.” And my answer is always the same, “She’s in the bassinet. She’s fine.” At this point, I think it would be safe to say that my daughter is a little worried by my mothering skills.

Caution, more randomness ahead.

Last night Chris asked if I was getting excited. You see, I’m so thrilled for this third little blessing of ours that will soon fill not only our hearts, but our arms, and laps, and the big morning family pile up in the bed. But, I’ve also never been the pregnant mama that’s too ready to move into the next phase of motherhood. My answer to the oft-asked question, “Are you ready?” is usually met with a heartfelt, “Yes and no.” I like this stage. I like using all of me to create something amazing to bring into the world. There’s something about this safety net cocooning our growing baby that also seems to cocoon me into a state of feeling settled and comfortable (and no, I’m not saying that my body is always comfortable). What I am saying is that motherhood can be scary, but I guess that’s the beauty of it, because without having to be brave, there may not be as much reward. As I prepare for this next stage of motherhood, again, and swoon over cute little diapers and awesome onesies (more on that coming soon!)… and by the way, the whole diaper thing is what gave away the secret that I’m totally stoked to have this kid… I’m going to go pick up that baby doll and practice those innate mothering skills so I can show off when my daughter gets home from school.